Purpose

Vision

Changing lives with STEM starts with a vision. In constructing a new science facility, Cornerstone University's desire is to design more than a campus building. Our dream is to create a space in which conversations about the intersection of faith and science are encouraged. A space in which students are stretched to think and grow. And a space in which the stories of future leaders begin to be built.

"Just as Christ Chapel celebrates Christ as Redeemer, so our new science facility will be designed to glorify Christ as Creator. Having two major benefits of Christ's work on our behalf signatured in our community will be a legacy reminder that, at Cornerstone, He is preeminent."

Dr. Joe StowellPresidentCornerstone University

Priorities

When it comes to influencing major sectors of our culture for Christ and His Kingdom, STEM-related fields offer a strategically important opportunity. And creating a facility where students can learn, grow and become impassioned to use their training to help society flourish is a vitally important next step for us.

Goal #1: Connect with Market Demand

Goal #1: Connect with Market Demand

An emphasis on STEM education in last decade has created a large number of prospective college applicants looking to excel in these high-demand disciplines. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

By 2020, approximately 1 in 5 new job opportunities in Michigan requiring education beyond high school will be in STEM job titles.

From 2016 to 2025, it is projected that there will be a 6% increase in the amount of STEM jobs available.

Between 2010 and 2020, employment in science and engineering occupations is expected to grow by 18.7%, compared to 14.3% for all occupations.

Goal #2: Resource Our Mission

Goal #2: Resource Our Mission

Cornerstone exists to empower men and women to excel as influencers in our world for Christ by offering a student-focused learning community where Jesus Christ is central. Resourcing the programs that allow us to fulfill our mission is a top priority.

With the addition of more STEM majors and an increasing emphasis on computer science, the appropriate facilities to support and enhance the quality of our STEM programs is a high priority. Our commitment to excellence in education requires providing the tools necessary for our faculty and students to succeed long term.

Goal #3: Exhibit Academic Excellence

Goal #3: Exhibit Academic Excellence

When it comes to securing top internships, jobs and graduate school placement, reputation matters. A new science building provides another step forward in exemplifying our commitment to academic rigor.

The science facility will serve the following majors:

Chemistry

Kinesiology

Math

Science

Pre-Dental

Pre-Medical

Pre-Veterinary

Occupational Therapy

Goal #4: Influence Beyond the Classroom

Goal #4: Influence Beyond the Classroom

As part of Cornerstone's mission to influence the world for Christ, we're committed to educating students who will graduate ready to apply their knowledge and live out their faith in the expanding STEM sectors.

A state-of-the-art science facility will help us fulfill our mission by equipping students to distinguish themselves as:

Physicians

Engineers

Biologists

Christ-centered innovators

"Cornerstone helped prepare me to be able to see all the people I interact with as God's creation. He is the ultimate healer, and we are tools in his hands. The fundamental purpose in being a physician is to show Christ's love to those who are hurting and in need."

"Cornerstone helped build a foundation for me to be a professional learner and a mature disciple. I learned the persistence needed to build a career. Cornerstone offers the tools to be successful, and this new building will make that journey even better for students."

About the Building

The Jack and Mary De Witt Center for Science and Technology will be a state-of-the-art facility in which the study of faith and science is enriched by a building design that showcases the preeminence of Christ the Creator. In this space, students will tackle environmental issues, create solid ethical medical foundations, develop innovations and design technologies as they are empowered to advance Christ's Kingdom in the growing science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields.

The $15 million center will include a laboratory wing, general purpose classroom and office wing, rain garden and glass atrium.

Give to Cornerstone

We're grateful for the donors and community partners who joined us in the vision of the Jack and Mary De Witt Center for Science and Technology. With their help, we can make a difference in our community and our world for Christ.